photo sharing and upload picture albums photo forums search pictures popular photos photography help login
Type your message and click Add Comment
It is best to login or register first but you may post as a guest.
Enter an optional name and contact email address. Name
Name Email
help private comment
Bob Moul | all galleries >> WILD BIRDS >> GEESE, SWANS > Richardson's Cackling Goose
previous | next
10-MAR-2009 Click Pic to return to gallery

Richardson's Cackling Goose

Codorus SP, York County, PA

Branta hutchinsii hutchinsii

HABITAT: LAKES, PONDS, BAYS, MARSHES, FIELDS * L 21" WS 4ft WT 4-6lbs



Three Cacklings in front. Compare size to the Canada Goose


"Distinguishing B. h. hutchinsii from large Canada Geese is relatively easy. In general hutchinsii is much smaller
with a short, stubby bill, relatively round or even square head with steep forehead (vs wedge-shaped head),
and relatively short neck. They appear paler silvery gray on the upperparts and upperwing coverts in some
lighting conditions, with the feathers having a more conspicuous dark subterminal bar and a broader and more
conspicuous pale tip. The breast color averages slightly darker than large eastern Canadas,
although many are pale-breasted, and the breast often has a golden wash. The voice is slightly
higher-pitched, and the wing shape in flight is different."


Excerpt from David Allen Sibley's
"Identification of Canada and Cackling Geese"


other sizes: small medium original auto
comment | share